What You Need to Know About Travel Insurance Before You visit Japan

Shawn Plummer

CEO, The Annuity Expert

Traveling is an exciting experience that can offer a plethora of unique and memorable moments. However, it is essential to remember that traveling can also come with a certain amount of risk. From lost luggage to medical emergencies, you must be prepared for any potential mishaps during your trip. That is why having travel insurance is crucial. This guide will explore the ins and outs of travel insurance in Japan and the requirements for traveling to and from Japan.

Types of Travel Insurance in Japan

Various types of travel insurance are available in Japan, and it is essential to understand their differences. Some of Japan’s most common types of travel insurance include medical insurance, trip cancellation insurance, and luggage insurance.

  • Medical insurance: This is perhaps the most important type of travel insurance as it covers medical expenses that may arise during your trip. This includes emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and medication costs. It is important to note that standard medical insurance policies may not provide coverage outside of your home country, so purchasing travel medical insurance before your trip is essential.
  • Trip cancellation insurance: This is another popular type of travel insurance in Japan. This policy covers the costs of canceling your trip due to unforeseen circumstances, such as illness or a family emergency.
  • Luggage insurance: This provides coverage for lost or damaged luggage during your trip. This type of insurance can benefit travelers carrying valuable items, such as electronics or jewelry.
Types Of Travel Insurance In Japan

Requirements for Traveling to and from Japan

To travel to and from Japan, specific requirements must be met. For example, if you are a US citizen traveling to Japan, you will need a valid passport and a visa. Additionally, you may be required to undergo a health screening or provide proof of vaccination.

If you are a Japanese citizen traveling to the US, you will also need a valid passport and may be required to obtain a visa. Again, you must check with the embassy or consulate in your home country for specific requirements.

US Embassy and Consulate in Osaka

The US Embassy in Japan is in Tokyo, but there is also a consulate in Osaka. The consulate provides various services, including assistance with visas, passport renewal, and emergency services for US citizens traveling in Japan.

Suppose you are planning on traveling to Japan from the US. In that case, contacting the US embassy or consulate in Osaka is a good idea for any specific requirements or recommendations.

Emergency Services for US Citizens

One of the essential services provided by the US embassy and consulate in Osaka is emergency assistance for US citizens. This includes assistance with medical emergencies, lost or stolen passports, and other emergencies that may arise during your trip.

Travel Insurance For Japan

What My Trip to Japan Was Like

Traveling to Japan can be a truly unforgettable experience. Japan has much to offer, from the bustling city streets of Tokyo to the serene temples of Kyoto. During my trip to Japan, I was struck by the country’s unique blend of modern and traditional culture.

Must-See Attractions in Japan

Japan’s must-see attractions include the Tokyo Tower, Mount Fuji, and the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto. Additionally, exploring the vibrant food scene in Japan is a must, with delicious sushi, ramen, and sake readily available.

What You Need to Travel to Japan

If you are planning on traveling to Japan, there are a few things you will need to have in order before you go. This includes a valid passport, a visa (if required), and travel medical insurance. Additionally, it is a good idea to understand Japanese customs and etiquette before you arrive.

Japanese Etiquette and Customs

Japanese culture strongly emphasizes respect and politeness, and travelers must understand and adhere to local customs. For example, removing your shoes before entering a home or certain establishments, such as temples or traditional restaurants, is customary. Additionally, it is considered impolite to talk loudly in public or to leave a tip at restaurants.

Travel Insurance from Japan

If you are a resident of Japan traveling to another country, you may also want to consider purchasing travel insurance from Japan. This can provide additional coverage for medical emergencies and other unexpected events while traveling outside Japan.

Benefits of Travel Insurance from Japan

One of the benefits of purchasing travel insurance from Japan is that the policies may be more tailored to the needs of Japanese residents. Additionally, the language and customer service may be more accessible and easier to understand for Japanese speakers.

Next Steps

Traveling to Japan can be a truly enriching experience, but being prepared for any potential mishaps is essential. Whether you are a US citizen traveling to Japan or a resident of Japan traveling abroad, it is crucial to have travel insurance to ensure that you are protected in case of an emergency. By understanding the requirements for traveling to and from Japan and the different types of travel insurance available, you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind.

Travel Insurance Japan

Request A Quote

Need help to find the best plan for your upcoming trip? No worries. Contact us below for a free quote.

The Annuity Expert – Travel Medical Insurance Inquiry
First
Last

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need insurance when traveling to Japan?

Before entering Japan, visitors from other nations must acquire a visa, which necessitates medical travel insurance. The level of coverage doesn’t have an official amount set by the government; however, it must span their entire stay in the country.

What happens if you don’t have health insurance in Japan?

If you’re in Japan and don’t have health insurance, it would likely be quite costly for any medical services or medications needed during your stay. Without a valid health insurance card when visiting a hospital or doctor’s office, expect to pay the total price for treatments received.

What travel documents do I need for Japan?

To enjoy uninterrupted tourist or business-related stays of up to 90 days, you must possess a valid passport and an onward/return ticket. Furthermore, your passport should remain in effect for the entire duration of your stay in Japan; it is not permissible to work with only a 90-day \”visa-free \” entry.

Is health insurance in Japan free?

All citizens and residents are eligible for public health insurance, which covers up to 70% of medical expenses and prescription drugs, with the remainder covered by the individual (with certain limits). The monthly premium is based on total household income.

Does Japan accept American health insurance?

Although you are not legally obligated to procure a travel insurance policy for Japan, we highly advise that you do so. This is because foreign health insurance plans will not be accepted in the country – meaning all expenses related to medical care must be borne by yourself. Therefore, it would be wise to get travel protection coverage for your trip; this way, unforeseen medical fees can easily and quickly be handled.

*Disclosure: Some of the links in this guide may be affiliate links. I may receive a commission at no cost to you if you purchase a policy. It helps us keep the lights on!

Shawn Plummer

CEO, The Annuity Expert

Shawn Plummer is a licensed insurance agent and annuity broker with over a decade of first-hand experience. Since beginning his journey in 2009, he has been pivotal in selling and educating about annuities and insurance products. Still, he has also played an instrumental role in training financial advisors for a prestigious Fortune Global 500 insurance company, Allianz. His insights and expertise have made him a sought-after voice in the industry, leading to features in renowned publications such as Time Magazine, Bloomberg, Entrepreneur, Yahoo! Finance, MSN, SmartAsset, The Simple Dollar, U.S. News and World Report, Women’s Health Magazine, and many more. Shawn’s driving ambition? To simplify retirement planning, he ensures his clients understand their choices and secure the best insurance coverage at unbeatable rates.

The Annuity Expert is an independent online insurance agency servicing consumers across the United States. The goal is to help you take the guesswork out of retirement planning and find the best insurance coverage at the cheapest rates

Scroll to Top